As the war between Israel and Iran entered its 17th day, Israel indicated it could halt hostilities if Tehran changes its course, with Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar stating that Israel still prefers a diplomatic resolution despite ongoing military operations.
Speaking to the press, Azar said Israel remains open to diplomacy but had been forced to resort to military action after negotiations failed to yield results. He stressed that diplomatic engagement has continued even as the conflict intensifies across West Asia.
“We are always for diplomacy. Unfortunately, we exhausted diplomacy and had to take military action. We hope that diplomacy will be relevant again as a result of our military action,” Azar said.
The envoy added that Israel has been actively consulting diplomatic channels in recent days, including its partners such as the United States and several countries in the region. He also noted that discussions have involved nations with which Israel does not maintain formal diplomatic relations, indicating efforts to keep communication lines open despite the escalating conflict.
Israel claims military advantage
Azar said Israel’s ongoing military campaign has significantly reduced Iran’s offensive capabilities. According to him, Israeli operations have degraded Tehran’s missile and drone launch capacity and targeted key military installations linked to its strategic infrastructure.
“Right now, we are controlling the skies of Iran,” he said, describing the situation as increasingly difficult for Tehran. He added that the number of missiles and drones available to Iran has already dropped significantly due to Israeli strikes.
The ambassador also indicated that the military campaign was progressing faster than initially expected. While Israel had earlier anticipated that operations could last several weeks, he said the country is currently ahead of schedule in achieving several of its military objectives.
However, he cautioned that the campaign is not over yet. Israel continues to pursue additional targets, particularly those connected to Iran’s missile launch capabilities and other military infrastructure.
Close coordination with Washington
Azar emphasised that Israel is closely aligned with the United States in its approach to the conflict. He said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has remained in constant contact with US President Donald Trump and his administration during the ongoing crisis.
He said Israel remains willing to pursue a diplomatic outcome if Iran accepts the conditions that have been placed on the table, particularly regarding its nuclear programme, ballistic missile activities and support for regional proxy groups.
If Iran refuses to cooperate, Azar suggested Israel will continue its efforts to weaken Tehran’s military capabilities and create conditions that could allow the Iranian people to push for policy or leadership changes.
Global trade and Gulf workers in focus
The envoy also framed Israel’s actions as part of a broader effort to stabilise the region. He argued that weakening Iran’s military threat would benefit international trade routes passing through West Asia and bring relief to millions of foreign workers living in the Gulf region, including a large number of Indians.
Addressing concerns about disruptions to global energy supplies, Azar said fears about the closure of the Strait of Hormuz were exaggerated.
“The Strait of Hormuz is not completely closed,” he said, adding that Iran would find it difficult to sustain a prolonged threat to shipping in the strategic waterway.
Azar said the future could become “brighter” if Iran decides to change its policies and recognise Israel, suggesting that a diplomatic breakthrough remains possible even as military operations continue.